(a) whether Handling telegrams through private STD PTs and PCOs in determintal to the security and secrecy of the messages;
(b) if so, the measures being taken by the Government to keep up the secrecy of the Telegraphic Messages;
(c) whether the Government is contemplating to revoke the present practice of Booking and Delivery of Telegrams through STD, PTs and PCOs; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (DR. SHAKEEL AHMAD)
(a) No, Sir. Handling telegrams through private STD Public Telephones (PTs) and PCOs is not detrimental to the security and secrecy of the messages as the franchisee is bound by the secrecy clauses and the provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act 1885.
(b) Under the existing provisions of franchising, the secrecy of the telegraphic messages are maintained.
(c) BSNL is not contemplating to revoke the present practice of booking and delivery of telegrams through STD, PTs and PCOs as it will reduce the availability and accessibility of the telegraph services.
(d) Does not arise view of (c) above.